Brick transport apparatus

ABSTRACT

A masonry or brick transport device is provided and is operable for receiving and retaining an array of bricks or other masonry products thereon such that masonry workers can easily lift, carry and transport the masonry products from one location (a storage location) to another (an installation location). The brick transport device provided includes a base frame carriage having at least two side rails and at least one interposing cross rail attached thereto. At least one, but preferably two, fork(s) operable for engaging and supporting a brick array are provided to the cross rail. Further, handle bars are provided for permitting a pair of workers to lift and transport the device. Optionally, a hook may be provided to the frame carriage for carrying a bucket or like device.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to the handling and transportation of masonry products such as brick, cinder block, cement, glass block or the like, and more particularly, to a transportation device operable for carrying a plurality or array of stacked bricks, pavers or cinder blocks from a storage area to a place of installation.

2. Technical Background

Conventionally, masonry workers employed old, archaic methods of transporting building materials, such as brick, which involved manually bending over and lifting one or more bricks off a pallet or skid by hand and then carrying them or placing them in a wheelbarrow and wheeling them to a job installation site. This course of action was tedious, inefficient and likely to result in dropping one or more bricks during transit or walking from a storage area to the location of installation. In some instances, mason tongs where used to transport the brick or other masonry product, however, such uses also proved to be inefficient. In an effort to overcome the shortcomings of the prior carrying and transport methods, manufacturers began to develop new ways to package and ship masonry product.

In this regard, manufacturers began to package and ship masonry products such as bricks (as well as pavers, cinder block, cement, glass block or like building materials) in large bundles or cubes. One example of the brick cubes used by manufacturers today is the Half Pack® cube available from Triangle Brick of Durham, N.C. The brick cubes generally consist of a plurality of vertically stacked or arrayed bricks bound together on a pallet or skid. Typically, the bricks are bound together by steel or plastic straps. Each brick array generally consists of fifty-one individual bricks and is provided with at least one, but preferably two, openings at or near its center for receiving forks of a forklift. The brick arrays are designed to accept the forks of a forklift for ease of movement or transportation. Disadvantageously, the use of forklifts to transport the brick arrays is limited by the size and mobility of the forklift itself. By way of example, certain forklifts are unable to lift and transport a brick array to a job installation site at and elevated location, such as up a flight of stairs. Further, not all forklifts are capable of passing through building entrances.

Accordingly, to reduce overall costs and to overcome the inherent disadvantages of known systems and methods, manufacturers and masonry workers are looking to utilize improved systems and methods for transporting masonry products from a storage location to one of installation. In one solution, it would be desirable to produce a frame carriage including a cross rail support interposed between a pair of side rail supports, wherein the cross rail support is provided with forks for lifting brick arrays. In such a solution, a two pairs of handle bars would extend from the frame carriage such that two or more workers could engage and carry an array of masonry products, such as bricks. It would also be desirable to provide a frame carriage which comprises no active components, thereby reducing the overall manufacturing cost.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

To achieve the foregoing and other objects, and in accordance with the purposes of the invention as embodied and broadly described herein, the present invention provides various embodiments of a brick transport apparatus operable for transporting multiple bricks from a storage location to a place of installation. The present invention also provides various embodiments of a brick transport apparatus designed to readily carry and transport additional materials such as buckets, etc.

In one exemplary embodiment, the present invention provides A brick transport device, comprising a base frame carriage defined by a pair of elongate side rail supports attached to at least one interposing cross rail support, the side rail supports being attached to the cross rail support at a substantially, perpendicular angle such that they extend outward in the same direction in a parallel manner. At least one fork is provided and perpendicularly attached to the cross rail support such that the at least one fork extends outwardly in a parallel direction to the side rail supports, the at least one fork being operable for engaging a brick array for transport. A plurality of handle bars is also provided and is mounted to a top surface of the side rail supports. In exemplary embodiments, the at least one fork is provided with a gripping feature to prevent slippage of products being transported.

In exemplary embodiments, the at least one fork is preferably two forks which are attached to the cross rail support in a spaced relation which corresponds to openings provided in the brick array.

In other exemplary embodiments, the plurality of handle bars extend in the vertical plane at an angle of inclination α, preferably 35 degrees. Further, the plurality of handle bars are spaced apart and positioned at an angle β (preferably 25 degrees) such that they are wide enough to accommodate and permit a worker to comfortably hold the device. Still further, in all exemplary embodiments, each of the plurality of handle bars include a handle portion attached thereto. The handle portions may include a grip for providing comfort to workers during operation.

Additional features and advantages of the invention will be set forth in the detailed description which follows, and in part will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from that description or recognized by practicing the invention as described herein, including the detailed description which follows, the claims, as well as the appended drawings.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description present exemplary embodiments of the invention, and are intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and character of the invention as it is claimed. The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the invention, and are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate various embodiments of the invention, and together with the detailed description, serve to explain the principles and operations thereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention are better understood when the following detailed description of the invention is read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a brick transport apparatus constructed in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the brick transport apparatus of FIG. 1, wherein a brick array is disposed thereon and ready for lifting or carrying.

FIG. 3 is a top or plan view of the brick transport apparatus of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a side view of the brick transport apparatus of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the brick transport apparatus of FIG. 1, wherein a hook is provided and being operable for carrying a bucket or the like disposed thereon.

The drawings are provided to assist one in understanding the invention, but they are not submitted to expand the scope of the claims.

DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings in which exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown. However, this invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. These exemplary embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be both thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. Like reference numbers refer to like elements throughout the various drawings.

In all exemplary embodiments described below, a masonry or brick transport device is provided. The brick transport device provided is operable for receiving and retaining an array of bricks or other masonry products thereon such that masonry workers can easily lift, carry and transport the masonry products from one location (a storage location) to another (an installation location). Advantageously, the present invention allows for the transportation of a plurality of masonry products without the need of a forklift, wheelbarrow or the like. Further, the brick transport device provides an easily maneuverable device which can maintain a plurality of masonry products without significant slippage or spillage. In all exemplary embodiments, the brick transport device provided includes a base frame carriage having at least two side rail supports and at least one interposing cross rail support attached thereto. Further, in all exemplary embodiments, the brick transport device includes at least one, but preferably two, fork(s) operable for engaging and supporting the brick array during operation. Still further, in all exemplary embodiments, a brick transport device is provided which has no active components. Thus, the overall manufacturing costs are advantageously reduced. In other exemplary embodiments, the various components of the present invention are fabricated from square, hollow tubes and/or angle iron sections. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that any strong material such as aluminum, steel, metal, wood, plastic, or any combination thereof may be used.

Referring now to the figures and particularly FIGS. 1-5, an exemplary embodiment of a brick transport device constructed according to the present invention is shown and generally referred to by the numeral 10. As shown, the brick transport device 10 is comprised of a base frame carriage 11 defined by a pair of elongate side rail supports 12, 14 fixedly attached and interconnected to at least one interposing cross rail support 16. In exemplary embodiments, the side rails 12, 14 are joined to the cross rail 16 at their respective ends 22 and 24. Further, the side rails 12, 14 are joined to the cross rail 16 at a substantially, perpendicular angle such that they extend outward in the same direction in a parallel manner. In exemplary embodiments, the cross rail 16 and the side rails 12, 14 may be joined together by welding, however, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that any manner of fixedly attaching the respective components together may be employed. As stated above, the cross section of the side and cross rails, 12, 14 and 16, respectively, are generally square in shape. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that any suitable shape may be used. Further, in exemplary embodiments, the side and cross rails, 12, 14 and 16, respectively, are generally hollow such that the overall weight of the apparatus is decreased. However, solid components may be used. As shown in FIGS. 1-5, only a single cross rail 16 is provided. However, the number of cross rails may vary. Particularly, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that for lighter weight masonry products one cross rail may be suitable, while heavier weight masonry products may require the addition of one or more cross rails.

Each side rail 12, 14 generally corresponds to the other in size, shape, configuration and construction. Further, each side rail 12, 14 generally has a length of about 12 inches. Of course, the length of the side rails 12, 14 may be adjusted as desired or needed. In exemplary embodiments, the cross rail 16 has a preferred length of about 28¾ inches and may be adjusted as desired or needed.

Fixedly attached to the cross rail 16 is at least one, but preferably two, forks, 18 and 20, respectively. The forks 18, 20 are perpendicularly attached to the cross rail 16 such that they extend outwardly in a parallel direction to the side rails 12, 14. Further, in exemplary embodiments and as best seen in FIGS. 1-2, the forks 18, 20 are attached to the cross rail 16 in a spaced relation which corresponds to openings 36 of a brick array 34. As with the side rails 12, 14, the forks 18, 20 generally correspond to the other in size, shape, configuration and construction. Further, each fork 18, 20 is generally comprised of a square-shaped hollow section and, in exemplary embodiments, has a length of about 8 inches. Of course, the length of the forks 18, 20 may be adjusted as needed. In other exemplary embodiments, the forks 18, 20 may be provided with a gripping feature (not shown) operable for maintaining the brick array 34 upon the device 10 during transport and for preventing slippage. The gripping feature may be a skid proof tape, a rubber coating, a sleeve or the like. While the forks 18, 20 are illustrated as having a generally square type cross section, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that any shape suitable for lifting and retaining brick arrays may be employed or used.

In all exemplary embodiments, the frame carriage 11 includes a plurality of handle bars 27, 29, 31 and 33 mounted to the top surface thereof. In exemplary embodiments and as shown in FIGS. 1-3 and 5, the plurality of handle bars 27, 29, 31 and 33 form two respective pairs operable for two or more workers to lift and carry the device 10. As shown, the handle bars 27, 29, 31 and 33 are mounted to the each of the ends of the side rails 12, 14 and extend vertically and outwardly therefrom. In exemplary embodiments, the handle bars 27, 29, 31 and 33 include handle portions 26, 28, 30 and 32. As illustrated, the handle bars 27, 29, 31 and 33 are joined to the side rails 12, 14 via welding, however, and any suitable means for attachment is acceptable. Further, in exemplary embodiments, the handle bars 27, 29, 31 and 33 extend in the vertical plane at an angle of inclination α. In exemplary embodiments, the angle of inclination α is 35 degrees. Still further, in exemplary embodiments, the handle bars 27, 29, 31 and 33 are spaced apart and positioned at an angle β such that they are wide enough to accommodate and permit a worker to comfortably hold the device 10. In exemplary embodiments, the angle β is 25 degrees. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the angle of inclination α and the angle β may be adjusted as needed or desired. Still further, each of the handle bars 27, 29, 31 and 33 are generally comprised of a square-shaped hollow section and, in exemplary embodiments, has a length of about 10 inches. Of course, the lengths and cross sections may changed or adjusted as needed.

Each handle portion 26, 28, 30 and 32 generally comprises a square-shaped hollow section and, in exemplary embodiments, has a length of about 16 inches. The length of the handle portions 26, 28, 30 and 32 may adjusted as needed. In all exemplary embodiments, the handle portions 26, 28, 30 and 32 are constructed so as to be long enough to permit a worker's legs free movement during transport. Further, each handle portion 26, 28, 30 and 32 may be provided with grips (not shown) operable for providing a more comfortable lifting device to the workers during operation.

In some exemplary embodiments, at least one hook 38 may be provided to the device 10 such that buckets 40 or other products may be carried along with the brick arrays 34. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, it is oftentimes desirable to transport cement, mud or the like along with the brick arrays so that the installation can be more efficient. Conventionally, workers had to make numerous trips to first transport the brick arrays and second transport the installation material. This method is both time consuming and inefficient. As best illustrated in FIG. 5, the at least one hook 38 may be placed over either the side rails 12, 14, or the cross rail 16. The hook 38 is configured so that it is easily installable and removable from the device 10. Further, the hook 38 is configured to retain the bucket 40 or the like in a manner which allows the bucket 40 to hang from the device 10 during transport.

In operation, a pair of masonry workers grip each of the handle portions 26, 28, and 32 and lift the device 10. Thereafter, they manipulate the device 10, and particularly the forks 18, 20 of the device 10, to engage the openings 36 of a brick array 34. Once the forks 18, 20 are in the openings 36, the workers lift the device 10 such that the forks 18, 20 contact a surface of the brick array and lift the same. Thereafter, the workers carry and maneuver the device 10 and the supported brick array 34 to a desired location and remove the device 10 for another use.

Thus, it is apparent that there has been provided, in accordance with the invention, a brick transport apparatus that fully satisfies the objects, aims, and advantages set forth above. The embodiments described above provide advantages over conventional devices and systems.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Thus, it is intended that the present invention cover the modifications and variations of this invention provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. 

1. A brick transport device, comprising: a base frame carriage defined by a pair of elongate side rails attached to at least one interposing cross rail, the side rails being attached to the cross rail at a substantially, perpendicular angle such that they extend outward in the same direction in a parallel manner; at least one fork perpendicularly attached to the cross rail such that the at least one fork extends outwardly in a parallel direction to the side rails, the at least one fork being operable for engaging a brick array for transport; and a plurality of handle bars mounted to a top surface of the side rails.
 2. The brick transport device of claim 1, wherein each side rail has a length of about 12 inches.
 3. The brick transport device of claim 1, wherein the cross rail has a length of about 28¾ inches.
 4. The brick transport device of claim 1, wherein the at least one fork is two forks which are attached to the cross rail in a spaced relation which corresponds to openings provided in the brick array.
 5. The brick transport device of claim 1, wherein the at least one fork has a length of about 8 inches.
 6. The brick transport device of claim 1, wherein the at least one fork includes a gripping feature.
 7. The brick transport device of claim 6, wherein the gripping feature is selected from the group consisting of a skid proof tape, a rubber coating, or a sleeve.
 8. The brick transport device of claim 1, wherein the plurality of handle bars include handle portions.
 9. The brick transport device of claim 1, wherein the plurality handle bars extend in the vertical plane at an angle of inclination α.
 10. The brick transport device of claim 9, wherein the angle of inclination α is 35 degrees.
 11. The brick transport device of claim 1, wherein the plurality of handle bars are spaced apart and positioned at an angle β such that they are wide enough to accommodate and permit a worker to comfortably hold the device.
 12. The brick transport device of claim 11, wherein the angle β is 25 degrees.
 13. The brick transport device of claim 8, wherein each handle portion has a length of about 16 inches.
 14. The brick transport device of claim 1, further comprising at least one removable hook operable carrying a bucket or similar device.
 15. A brick transport device, comprising: a base frame carriage defined by a pair of elongate side rails attached to at least one interposing cross rail, the side rails being attached to the cross rail at a substantially, perpendicular angle such that they extend outward in the same direction in a parallel manner; a pair of forks operable for engaging a brick array for transport, the pair of forks being perpendicularly attached to the cross rail in a spaced relation such that they extend outwardly in a parallel direction to the side rails and correspond to openings provided in the brick array; and a plurality of handle bars mounted to a top surface of the side rails.
 16. The brick transport device of claim 15, wherein the pair of forks include a gripping feature.
 17. The brick transport device of claim 15, wherein the plurality of handle bars include handle portions.
 18. The brick transport device of claim 15, wherein the plurality of handle bars extend in the vertical plane at an angle of inclination α and are spaced apart and positioned at an angle β such that they are wide enough to accommodate and permit a worker to comfortably hold the device.
 19. The brick transport device of claim 15, wherein the angle of inclination α is 35 degrees and the angle β is 25 degrees, respectively.
 20. A brick transport device, comprising: a base frame carriage defined by a pair of elongate side rails attached to at least one interposing cross rail, the side rails being attached to the cross rail at a substantially, perpendicular angle such that they extend outward in the same direction in a parallel manner; a pair of forks operable for engaging a brick array for transport, the pair of forks being perpendicularly attached to the cross rail in a spaced relation such that they extend outwardly in a parallel direction to the side rails and correspond to openings provided in the brick array; and a plurality of handle bars mounted to a top surface of the side rails, the plurality of handle bars including handle portions and extending in the vertical plane at an angle of inclination 25 degrees and being spaced apart and positioned at an angle 35 degrees such that they are wide enough to accommodate and permit a worker to comfortably hold the device. 